FiiO QX13 Review

 

Introduction:

The QX13 stands as FiiO’s flagship portable USB DAC/amplifier dongle, building on the company’s reputation for compact high-fidelity solutions. It integrates a single ES9027SPRO DAC chip for decoding up to 768kHz/32-bit PCM and native DSD512, while four INA1620 amplifier channels deliver substantial output, reaching 900mW per channel at 32 ohms on the balanced connection in desktop mode. Dual USB Type-C ports allow for data transfer and optional external powering, enhancing versatility for mobile or stationary use. The device includes a 3.5mm single-ended output that doubles as coaxial out, a dedicated 4.4mm balanced headphone port, physical volume controls, and a vibrant 1.99-inch LCD screen, all housed in a premium chassis available in carbon fiber or aluminum alloy finishes.

 

Disclaimer:

I would like to thank FiiO for providing me the QX13 USB DAC/Amplifier dongle as review sample. I am not affiliated with FiiO beyond this review and these words reflect my true and unaltered, opinions about the product.

  

Price & Availability:

The original actual price of the FiiO KA17 is 219.00 US$. More information’s can be found under the link below;

• FiiO KA17 Portable USB DAC/Amplifier

 

Package & Accessories:

The FiiO QX13 arrives in a sleek black box with subtle geometric accents and some product spesific brandibgs and details on the top.

Inside the box are the following items:

• 1 x FiiO QX13 portable USB DAC/amplifier dongle
• 1 x Leather case
• 1 x USB Type-C to USB Type-C data cable
• 1 x Type-C silicone plug (pre-installed)
• 1 x Screen protector film
• 1 x Ring-shaped magnetic conductor
• 1 x Quick start guide
• 1 x Warranty card

The inclusion of the USB Type-C to USB Type-C data cable stands out for its high-quality construction, ensuring a reliable and stable connection for data transfer across various devices, though its length might feel slightly short for some setups requiring more flexibility.

The ring-shaped magnetic conductor enhances the connection between the QX13 and the leather case, offering a secure fit that is especially handy when pairing with optional accessories like the EStick.

The leather case itself adds a premium aesthetic and protective layer with its magnetic closure, though it could use a bit more padding to offer enhanced protection during travel.

 

Design & Build Quality:

Holding the FiiO QX13 for the first time, you immediately notice its premium feel. The build quality is exceptional, a significant step up from many other dongles on the market. The body is a solid block, available in two sophisticated finishes.

The carbon fiber model is surprisingly lightweight, with a sleek, modern appearance that feels incredibly durable. The titanium gold aluminum alloy version has a reassuring heft to it, with a smooth finish that speaks to its high-quality construction.

Measuring around 64.2 x 30.7 x 13 mm, it’s a little thicker than a standard dongle, but this is a worthwhile trade-off for its more substantial internals and superior performance.

The device’s surfaces each have a specific purpose and unique design. The front is dominated by the star of the show: a large 1.99-inch LCD color display. This vibrant screen is a major improvement over the small, monochrome displays on other devices, making it a pleasure to navigate settings and view information. The display is protected by a scratch-resistant glass panel and shows key details like volume level, sample rate, current gain setting, and EQ status.

Below the screen are the three primary control buttons: Volume Down (-), Play/Pause (►||), and Volume Up (+). These buttons provide satisfying tactile feedback and offer a surprisingly deep level of control.

• The Volume Up button not only increases the volume but also allows you to skip to the next track with a short press. A long press provides continuous volume adjustment or continuous track skipping, depending on the current mode.
• The Volume Down button lowers the volume and, with a short press, takes you back to the previous track. A long press allows for continuous volume reduction or continuous backward track skipping.
• The Play/Pause button is multi-functional. A single press pauses or resumes playback, while a long press enters or exits the main menu, providing a straightforward way to access all settings.

The left side houses the orange USB Type-C port dedicated to external power input, its distinct color preventing confusion with the main port.

Recessed neatly into the chassis, this port supports charging FiiO ESTICK accessories, adding practical versatility.

The design maintains a balanced weight distribution when connected to a device.

The right surface features the desktop mode switch.

The top edge features the audio outputs in a symmetrical arrangement: the 3.5mm single-ended headphone jack, which can switch to coaxial output mode, is positioned next to the 4.4mm balanced headphone port. Both use gold-plated contacts for reliable connections, accompanied by a small LED indicator that lights up to confirm output or mode changes. This setup keeps cables manageable, though bulkier plugs might protrude slightly.

The bottom edge centers the primary USB Type-C port for data and host power, designed with a slight bevel to reduce cable strain. It supports USB 2.0 speeds, ensuring broad compatibility without complexity.

The rear surface is kept minimal and elegant, displaying the FiiO logo and the QX13 model branding. Additionally, you’ll find the Desktop Mode icon, along with the necessary regulatory markings like CE and FCC, all neatly arranged. This combination of a unique textured design and clear branding gives the rear panel a clean and sophisticated look that matches the device’s overall premium aesthetic.

 

FiiO QX13 – Technical Overview:

Core Specs:

• DAC: ES9027SPRO
• USB Chip: XMOS XU316
• Amplifier: INA1620 ×4
• Gain Modes: High / Low
• Recommended Headphone Impedance: 8–350Ω 

Build & Dimensions:

• Colors: Black (Carbon Fiber), Titanium Gold (Aluminum Alloy)
• Size: 64.2 × 30.7 × 13 mm
• Weight: 33.7g (Carbon), 39.2g (Aluminum) 

Connections & Controls:

• Inputs: USB-C (Power & Data), USB-C (Dedicated Power for Desktop Mode)
• Outputs: 3.5mm Single-Ended (also Coaxial), 4.4mm Balanced
• Buttons: Volume Up, Volume Down, Play/Pause
• Switch: Desktop Mode Slide Switch
• Display: 1.99″ LCD, rotatable
• Indicators: Format, Volume, Gain, USB Mode, Sample Rate 

Audio Features:

• USB DAC: Up to 768kHz/32bit PCM, DSD512
• Coaxial Output: Up to 96kHz/24bit
• MQA: Full decoding supported
• EQ: 10-band (±12dB), 8 presets + user customization
• Firmware: USB-OTA upgradeable 

Power Requirement:

• Input: DC 5V ≥ 1A 

Performance Summary:

• 3.5mm Output (Desktop Mode): Up to 440mW (16Ω), SNR ≥124dB, THD+N <0.0004%
• 4.4mm Output (Desktop Mode): Up to 900mW (32Ω), SNR ≥124dB, THD+N <0.0006%
• 3.5mm Output (Non-Desktop): Up to 370mW (16Ω), SNR ≥123dB
• 4.4mm Output (Non-Desktop): Up to 605mW (32Ω), SNR ≥122dB
• Frequency Response:
  • 20Hz–90kHz: < 2.8dB loss
  • 20Hz–20kHz: < 0.07dB loss
• Noise Floor: < 3.5μV

  

 

Hardware Features:

The QX13 serves as a versatile portable audio adapter, centered on the ES9027SPRO DAC chip, which employs an eight-channel architecture for superior dynamic range and minimal distortion. This setup ensures precise signal reconstruction with minimal artifacts, ideal for high-resolution sources.

An XMOS XU316 USB receiver handles input decoding, supporting PCM up to 768kHz/32-bit, native DSD512, and full MQA unfolding, appealing to listeners with expansive digital libraries. The four-channel INA1620 amplification stage provides robust drive capability, with balanced output hitting 900mW+900mW at 32 ohms in desktop mode and single-ended reaching 310mW+310mW under similar conditions, accommodating impedances from 8 to 350 ohms across both outputs.

Connectivity revolves around dual Type-C ports: the main one for audio sourcing from smartphones, tablets, or computers, and the auxiliary orange port for external 5V/1A power to enable desktop enhancements without draining host batteries. The 3.5mm port’s coaxial mode extends utility for external DACs, selectable via the onboard menu or app.

Customization shines through a 10-band dynamic EQ with eight presets plus user profiles, adjustable in real-time via the FiiO Control app, which also manages screen brightness, channel balance, and firmware updates over USB-OTA. The LCD display conveys status details like format, gain (high/low), and noise floor metrics, with auto-off timers for battery conservation.

 

FiiO APP & Comparability:

The QX13 is a highly customizable audio device that gives you precise control over your sound. It supports the FiiO Control App, which is available on Android and as a web interface, allowing you to fine-tune your listening experience. This includes access to a parametric EQ, which provides a level of control far beyond standard equalizers by letting you adjust the gain, frequency, and bandwidth of specific audio ranges.

This advanced software control is complemented by the QX13’s extensive hardware compatibility. The device supports both UAC 1.0 and UAC 2.0, two standardized USB audio protocols. This allows it to seamlessly connect to a wide range of platforms, from gaming consoles like the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch (using UAC 1.0) to modern computers and smartphones (utilizing the higher fidelity UAC 2.0). With the QX13, you get both the versatility to connect to any device and the tools to customize your audio to perfection.

 

Equipment’s used for this review:

• DAC/AMP’s               : FiiO QX13, iBasso DC07 Pro
• IEM’s                          : FiiO FP3, Campfire Audio Fathom
• Headphones              : FiiO FT5

 

Albums & Tracks Used for this Review:

Vocal Jazz / Smooth Jazz

• Norah Jones – Come Away With Me (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Diana Krall – So Wonderful (DSF)
• Barry White – Just The Way You Are (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Isaac Hayes – Walk On By (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Sting – Englishman in New York (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Otto Liebert & Luna Negra – The River (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Ferit Odman – Look, Stop & Listen (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Charly Antolini – Duwadjuwandadu (Flac 24bit/192kHz) 

Soul / R&B

• Aretha Franklin – I Say A Little Prayer (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Adele – My Little Love (Apple Lossless)
• George Michael – Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight (Flac 24bit/96kHz) 

Pop / Rock Classics

• Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Elton John – Rocket Man (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• David Bowie – Heroes (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• U2 – Sunday Bloody Sunday (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Lorde – Royals (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Dave Gahan – Kingdom (Apple Lossless) 

Electronic / Experimental

• Daft Punk – Instant Crush (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Daft Punk – Doin’ it Right (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Bro Safari, UFO! – Drama (Apple Lossless)
• Armin Van Buuren – Vini Vici (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Yosi Horikawa – Bubbles (Apple Lossless)
• Toutant – Rebirth (Apple Lossless) 

Alternative / Indie / Art Rock

• Radiohead – Live in Berlin “Album” (Apple Lossless)
• Radiohead – Pyramid Song (Apple Lossless)
• Muse – Hysteria (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Red Hot Chili Peppers – Nobody Weird Like Me (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Lunatic Soul – The Passage (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Portishead – It Could Be Sweet (Apple Lossless)
• Gogo Penguin – Raven (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Gogo Penguin – Murmuration (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Massive Attack – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Bear McCreary – Valkyries (Apple Lossless) 

Classical / Orchestral

• Max Richter – On the Nature of Daylight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Chopin – Nocturne No. 20 in C-Sharp Minor (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Clair de Lune – Claude Debussy (Apple Lossless)
• Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 5 (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Vivaldi – Le Quattro Stagioni “The Four Seasons” (Apple Lossless)
• Fazıl Say – Nazım Oratoryosu (Live) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz) 

Jazz / Instrumental

• Miles Davis – So What (Apple Lossless) 

World / Traditional

• Sertap Erener – Aşk (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Edith Piaf – Non Je Ne Regrette Rien (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz) 

Metal / Progressive Rock

• Metallica – Dyers Eve (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Metallica – Sad but True (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Megadeth – Sweating Bullets (Apple Lossless)
• Opeth – Windowpane (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Deftones – My Own Summer (Shove It) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Rush – Tom Sawyer (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Slayer – Angel of Death (Apple Lossless)
• Liquid Tension Experiment 2 – Acid Rain (Apple Lossless)

 

The Sound:

The FiiO QX13 positions itself as a refined evolution in FiiO’s dongle lineup, favoring a neutral-leaning signature with subtle warmth that prioritizes resolution and flow over aggressive emphasis. This approach suits a broad range of genres, revealing layers in recordings without imposing character. After about 50 hours of burn-in, the sound settled into a cohesive profile, tested primarily with the FiiO FP3 and Campfire Audio Fathom IEMs, plus the FiiO FT5 headphones. Across these pairings, the QX13 maintains a black background with minimal noise, ensuring even sensitive drivers breathe freely. Bass digs deep with control, mids unfold naturally, treble extends smoothly, and the stage expands notably in desktop mode, fostering an engaging yet unforced listen.

Bass:

In the low end, the QX13 shows a controlled extension and texture, rendering sub-bass rumbles with authority while keeping mid-bass taut to avoid bleed into upper frequencies. This balance shines in electronic tracks, where the amplifier’s power reserves prevent compression during peaks, delivering punches that feel visceral yet precise. With the balanced output engaged, especially in desktop mode, the bass gains added weight and speed, making it adaptable for both analytical planar drivers like those in the FT5 and dynamic setups in the Fathom. The response rolls off gently in the deepest registers, preserving energy without exaggeration, and channel separation ensures stereo imaging stays firm.

A track like Daft Punk’s “Doin’ it Right” highlights this capability, with its layered synth bass emerging as a foundational pulse that vibrates through the FT5’s drivers without overwhelming the mix. The QX13 captures the track’s groove with rhythmic snap, allowing subtle harmonic details in the low-end decay to surface clearly. Similarly, Lorde’s “Royals” tests punchy, sparse bass lines against sparse vocals; here, the dongle imparts a sense of physicality to the kicks, maintaining definition so they complement rather than dominate the arrangement. Even in acoustic fare like Isaac Hayes’ “Walk on By,” the bass guitar lines retain warmth and pluck without muddiness, underscoring the QX13’s skill in blending quantity with quality. Overall, this section feels mature, rewarding tracks with complex lows while scaling appropriately for lighter material.

 

Midrange:

The mids occupy a forward yet recessed sweet spot, presenting vocals and instruments with lifelike timbre and microdynamic nuance that draws listeners into the performance. Female voices gain a breathy intimacy without veiling, while male timbres avoid chestiness, thanks to the DAC’s linear response and low distortion. Instruments like guitars and pianos resolve with even-handed detail, avoiding spotlighting any register, which fosters a cohesive band-in-room illusion. Paired with the FP3, the midrange reveal subtle inflections in string plucks, and on the FT5, orchestral swells expand with organic decay.

Norah Jones’ “Don’t Know Why” serves as an ideal probe for upper-mid clarity, where her husky delivery intertwines with piano chords; the QX13 conveys the emotional quiver in her phrasing alongside the keys’ resonant overtones, creating a cozy yet detailed space that invites repeated plays. In jazz fusion like Charly Antolini’s “Duwadjuwandadu,” the midrange handles saxophone bite and piano transients with balance, separating improvisational flourishes without harsh edges, even as drums underscore the rhythm. For rockier fare, such as Radiohead’s “Pyramid Song,” Thom Yorke’s layered vocals float amid warped guitars, with the dongle preserving the song’s ethereal haze while etching fine reverb tails. This range feels transparent, enhancing engagement across intimate ballads and dense ensembles alike.

 

Treble:

High frequencies on the QX13 unfold with airiness and refinement, extending smoothly yet prioritizing smoothness over sparkle to sidestep fatigue. Cymbals shimmer with natural decay, and hi-hats snap crisply without sibilance, benefiting from the clean signal path that keeps artifacts at bay. This extension adds perceived resolution, unveiling air around notes, but the amp’s low output impedance ensures stability across loads, preventing peaks from blooming unnaturally.

Metallica’s “Dyers Eve” pushes treble demands with rapid guitar harmonics and crashing percussion; the QX13 tracks these with speed and clarity, rendering the thrash energy vividly on the Fathom without etching or glare, even at high volumes. In classical selections like Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons,” the violin trills and harmonic overtones come through with grace and precision, as the dongle maintains the lively sparkle of the strings while keeping the overall atmosphere serene and immersive. Electronic highs in Armin van Buuren’s “Vini Vici” receive textured lift, where synth leads cut through without piercing, maintaining drive across the FT5. The treble contributes to overall liveliness, enhancing detail retrieval while remaining listener-friendly for extended sessions.

 

Soundstage & Imaging:

Desktop mode unlocks the QX13’s spatial potential, crafting a wide, layered stage with precise imaging that places elements in a holographic array. Separation excels, with instruments carving distinct lanes, and depth cues add realism, particularly on open-back designs like the FT5. The balanced output amplifies this, fostering immersion without diffusion, though single-ended mode holds its own for casual use.

 

Comparison:

FiiO QX13 versus iBasso DC07 Pro:

When comparing the QX13 and the iBasso DC07 Pro, it’s clear that each dongle has a distinct approach to sound. Hours of back-and-forth listening across various genres and equipment reveal their unique sonic signatures.

The iBasso DC07 Pro presents a very clean and analytical sound. Its bass is precise and tightly controlled, offering quick, focused hits that work well for tracks with fast rhythms. While this precision is excellent for clarity, it can sometimes feel a bit lean. The midrange is exceptionally transparent, highlighting vocals and instrumental details with a cool, observational tone. This makes complex music very clear but can feel a little distant on warmer, acoustic recordings. The treble is extended and airy, providing a sense of space and detail without sounding overly sharp, though it benefits from careful volume management to avoid any harshness on brighter systems.

The QX13 offers a warmer, more engaging sound. Its bass has a natural fullness that adds body and resonance, pulling you into the music rather than just presenting it. The midrange has a lifelike quality that makes vocals feel more intimate and textured, with instruments blending together in a more cohesive and immersive way. The treble is smooth and airy, providing clear detail without the occasional sharpness of the DC07 Pro, making for a more relaxed listening experience. In terms of soundstage, the QX13 creates a deeper, more enveloping space, while the DC07 Pro focuses on precise width and instrument placement. In short, if the DC07 Pro offers a clear, analytical view of the music, the QX13 provides a more musical and inviting presentation.

 

Conclusion:

The FiiO QX13 emerges as a compelling flagship dongle, packing desktop-level power and finesse into a portable frame. With its ES9027SPRO core and multi-channel amplification, it tackles high-res files and tough loads effortlessly, while features like dynamic EQ and a responsive display elevate usability. The sound’s neutral poise with natural warmth makes it versatile for discerning ears, striking a strong balance between performance and portability at its price point.

 

Pros & Cons:

• + Impressive power output across modes
• + Clean, detailed sound with natural timbre
• + Large, informative display with rotation
• + Robust build in two premium finishes
• + Versatile EQ and app integration
• + Effective desktop mode for enhanced drive
• + Low noise floor for sensitive gear
• + Solid value in the flagship segment

 

• – Slightly bulkier than entry-level dongles
• – App lacks iOS optimization
• – Cable length feels short for some setups

 

Thank you for the Read!